2026 Pioneer Hall of Fame Nominations

The WAI Pioneer Hall of Fame was established in 1992 to honor women who have made significant contributions as record setters, pioneers, or innovators. Special consideration is given to individuals or groups who have helped other women be successful in aviation or opened doors of opportunity for other women. WAI solicits nominations from members of women throughout the aviation industry for induction to the WAI Pioneer Hall of Fame. Visit www.wai.org/phof-directory for more information on WAI PHOF. 

Eligibility Requirements for Nominees:

1. Nominees must have made outstanding contributions to one or more of the following areas:

1. Aviation Education 
2. General Aviation
3. Commercial Aviation
4. Military Aviation
5. Corporate Aviation
6. Aerospace

2. The major contribution(s) must have been significant record setting or pioneering efforts.

3. Candidates can be living or deceased.

4. Candidates cannot nominate themselves.

5. All facts submitted for review must be independently verifiable.

6. Several good quality, reproducible photos of nominee—a high resolution digital photo is best.

A judging committee will review all applications. The committee will make final selections based on how the nominee's contributions met the criteria of record setting or pioneering efforts.

A maximum of five candidates will be inducted in March 2026. Announcement of inductees will be made in early 2026, and the induction ceremony will be held at the 37th Annual International Women in Aviation Conference in Grapevine, Texas, during the Pioneer Hall of Fame Ceremony on Friday, March 20, 2026.

Submission Deadline:

Applications must be received by August 1.

Nomination form link coming soon! Email questions to pioneers@wai.org.